Fifty Plus (50+) - First time posting and a question

Hi everyone
This is my first time here. I've been a cycling enthusiast for years, although I haven't ridden much in the last three years. I had major knee surgery in 2002 and have found it difficult to ride my current bike. It is a Specialized stumpjumper mtn bike with front suspension. I'm currently looking at the Trek 7700 hybrid. It offers me a more upright riding position, has top notch components and a Manitou fork. If anyone is familiar with this model, I would appreciate any and all comments. I enjoy riding(for recreation and exercise), so I'm eager to get back on a bike. Most of my riding will be on city streets and paved bike paths(maybe some off road).

Thanks in advance
BobB
Niagara Falls NY.

Hi BobB!

Welcome back to cycling! Unfortunately, I'm not familiar with the Trek line, so I can't advise you on that. My choice in "upright" riding was an Electra Townie. After the first six months, I discovered I couldn't ride for more than an hour at a time without being SORE. The "upright only" riding position combined with the "cowhorn" bars gave me a sore keester and tennis elbow.

I sold my Townie and bought a bike that I converted to a "English racer" style with the down-turned handlebars. Surprisingly, I find this bike more comfortable (after a week or two of adjustment on my part), because of the multiple seat/hand positions available.

If you're sold on a "comfort bike" and are sure it will work for you, then go for it! Otherwise, consider other styles before you buy. It may cost you a little time, but can save you a lot of money! The difference in stress on your knees is zero.

Happy shopping & riding!

Hi everyone
has top notch components and a Manitou fork. If anyone is familiar with this model, I would appreciate any and all comments. I enjoy riding(for recreation and exercise), so I'm eager to get back on a bike. Most of my riding will be on city streets and paved bike paths(maybe some off road).

Thanks in advance
BobB
Niagara Falls NY.

Not familiar with that specific model, but Trek's are not a bad bike. I think there are better models about, but for mainly road riding, I would look away from front suspension. Front suspension is not necessary on tarmac, and will cut performance on it.
For the type of riding you are looking at I would suggest a Hybrid. Can't think of any specific models, but Specialised make some very good hybrids, but if you need suspension, look at getting a minimum travel fork that has some pedigree. A cheap fork that just goes up and down will not last long, and will not give you a good ride.

One friend had a 7700 and two others had 7300's. All are interested only in road riding and have sold the bikes in favour of more road orientated bikes. Two bought Trek 1500's and swear by them now, I'm picking up one next week. The mate went for a similar spec giant.

Have you LBS put a road bike on a trainer and see if you have flexibility of motion to ride it. If so, look for a good road bike. If not, go for a semi recumbent like the Giant Revive. If that is too much motion, go for a full recumbent.

I can't resist throwing in a plug for my favorite hybrid - the Kona Dew series! :D

I have a Trek 7200, and my wife has a Trek 7100. Both of us do the majority of our riding on rail trails. We are both very pleased with our Trek hybrids.

I believe that the 7700 runs about $1,200. It does have top components, but that is a lot of money. I paid $349 for my 7200, so I would check other options before taking that big a financial plunge. Just a thought.